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Veterinary Instrument

Detailed Information on a Veterinary Technician

In the present day world, owning of pets has become very popular. But keeping of pets requires superior veterinary care. Who can provide such care to animals owned by the individuals? The simple answer is a Veterinary Technician, who is trained in this field to provide quality care to these pets. One can see them practicing in the private clinic or hospital, looking after the animals brought there for treatment and check ups. Therefore, Veterinary Technicians can be defined as these medical assistants, who are trained for offering state-of-the-art veterinary care to animals.

These technicians work under the supervision of a licensed veterinarian in private clinics. They perform numerous tasks that are related to animals, other than surgery, diagnosing of the animals and prescribe medications. They can not also perform any activity that is prohibited by a state’s veterinary practice act.

Their work duties can be differentiated between private practice and biomedical research and that include:

A veterinary technician working in a biomedical research facility, under the supervision of a licensed veterinarian or other scientist has to perform various responsibilities, along with above mentioned duties and they include:

• Look after research animals
• Oversee humane care of research animals
• Help in documenting and implementing research projects

Career Outlook

There are numerous career opportunities for veterinary technicians and their demand is increasing everyday in the field of human and animal concerned areas and as a veterinary specialist. The areas, where these technicians can excel include:

There are various certified veterinary technician education programs, which are accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) throughout United States. These programs include an Associate degree, which stretches for 2 years and a four-year Baccalaureate degree. These programs also prepare a technician for the Veterinary Technician National Exam (VTNE) and certification. Completion of 4 years Baccalaureate degree program and certification can fetch better salary and immediate employment in private clinics and laboratories.

It must also be noted that hand-on experience is offered to the students during an AVMA-accredited veterinary technology program. Such training plays very important role for gaining practical experience and is very helpful during veterinary technician job search. The period, when clinical training is conducted is known as externship or practicum.

A student or working professional can also opt for accredited distance learning courses, which can be completed at their free time or leisurely hours. For maintaining the license in its current form and to update latest knowledge and discoveries in veterinary field, certain hours of CE as per specified state requirements must be completed.